Natalie Darwitz, three-time Olympic medalist and one of the best known names in women’s hockey, has agreed to become the head women’s coach at Hamline.
“Characteristics such as drive, passion, and work ethic that ultimately made Natalie one of the best women’s hockey players in the world, are the same characteristics Natalie has as coach,” Hamline athletics director Jason Verdugo said in a statement. “We are so fortunate to have someone of her caliber as our new head coach. I envision her making a significant impact on Hamline University well beyond athletics.”
Darwitz was a three-time All-American at Minnesota and is the school’s all-time leader in points with 246. She also has had considerable success on the world stage, representing the United States in three Olympics, eight World Tournaments and ten 4 Nations Cup events. She has been a captain of several of those teams, a member of five gold-medal winning teams and in 2005, was named Woman Player of the year by USA Hockey.
“I am extremely excited and honored for the opportunity to join Hamline University,” Darwitz added. “I look forward to working with the student-athletes and helping the women’s hockey program grow and excel on and off the ice.”
Darwitz was an assistant at Minnesota for two seasons before taking the head job at Lakeville South High School (Minn.) four years ago. This year, she guided the Cougars to a 24-6-1 record and a first-ever berth in the MSHSL Class AA Girls’ Hockey Tournament.
